Bridges Air Cargo Adds the World’s First Embraer E190 P2F to Its Fleet

Malta-based airline Bridges Air Cargo has taken delivery of its first Embraer E190 P2F (Passenger to Freighter) aircraft, becoming the launch customer for this converted freighter type.

In a social media post on 22 August, the company announced that a second aircraft would soon be delivered as part of its expansion plans. Bridges Air Cargo is part of the Bridges Worldwide group, which provides solutions in international logistics, courier, and express transport, and partners with global giants such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS.

Embraer’s E190 P2F Programme

An Embraer spokesperson told Aviation Week on 25 August that Miami-based leasing company Regional One has placed an order for four E190Fs, two of which will be delivered to Bridges Air Cargo. The E190F conversion programme was launched in 2022, with the first aircraft taking flight in April 2024.

Embraer stated that the E190F fills the gap in the cargo market between the ATR turboprop and the Boeing 737-800F, offering three times the range, over 40% more volume capacity, and 30% lower operating costs. The maximum structural payload capacity is listed as 13,500 kg.

Guy Bridges, CEO of Bridges Air Cargo, said in June:

“The E190 P2F addresses an underserved segment in the cargo market. This opens the door to the development of new routes.”

A New Standard in Global Cargo Transport

Regional One President Hank Gibson noted, “With the first E190 P2F conversion, we are setting a new benchmark in regional cargo transport.” Embraer Commercial Aviation President and CEO Arjan Meijer added that, following FAA, EASA and ANAC certification processes, the company will fully support the aircraft’s entry into service.

With this milestone, Bridges Air Cargo has strengthened its fleet with next-generation aircraft that will not only meet the growing demands of modern e-commerce but also boost efficiency and sustainability in regional cargo transport.